On Thursday, Dec. 6, Mesa Verde National Park will host the 2012 Annual Holiday Open House from 4 to 9 p.m. in the Chapin Mesa headquarters area.
Everyone is invited to join the park staff in this holiday celebration featuring special tours, luminarias, musical entertainment, night sky interpretation and refreshments. Ranger-guided tours of Spruce Tree House, the third largest cliff dwelling in the park, will be presented at 10 a.m., 1 p.m., 3:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. Spruce Tree House is also available for self-guided tours from 4 to 9 p.m. Luminarias will glow along the pathways throughout the headquarters area, a National Historic Landmark District, and along the trail to Spruce Tree House. Dress warmly and bring a flashlight.
The Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum will remain open until 9 p.m. There will be musical entertainment in the museum auditorium throughout the evening. The schedule of performances is as follows:
Chapin Mesa Archeological Museum Auditorium
4:30 to 5 p.m. William Yazzie, traditional Native American flute and drum
5 to 5:45 p.m. Meadowlark, contemporary folk rock
5:50 to 6:20 p.m. Silver Echos Flute Choir, holiday music
6:25 to 7:15 p.m. Four Corners Community Band, holiday music
7:25 to 8:25 p.m. Wild Mountain Music, bluegrass
Spruce Tree Terrace Cafe
6:15 to 6:45 p.m. William Yazzie, traditional Native American flute and drum
Spruce Tree House Trail
5:30 to 6 p.m. William Yazzie, traditional Native American flute and drum
6 to 7:30 p.m. Fort Lewis College Bala Sinem Choir, traditional Native American drum and chant
The non-profit Mesa Verde Museum Association (MVMA) Museum Store will be open highlighting the sale of books, posters, puppets, historic photographs, and great holiday gifts as well as in-store specials. Bring your gift list along to take advantage of this special occasion. Proceeds benefit Mesa Verde National Park.
Attendance at the Open House is free. Refreshments will be provided by ARAMARK, Mesa Verde Company, City Market- Cortez, and the Mesa Verde Museum Association.
No park entrance fee will be charged after 4 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 6. Mark your calendar and plan to join us in the park festivities! For further information, please contact the park at 970-529-4465.